When nipples hurt, it typically means the sensitive nipple skin is irritated, inflamed, or affected by various conditions. Common causes include hormonal changes (such as during menstruation or pregnancy), breastfeeding issues (like poor latch or chafing), friction from clothing or exercise, infections (such as yeast infections or dermatitis), allergic reactions, and sometimes more serious conditions like breast cancer or Paget’s disease (a rare form of breast cancer). Nipple pain can feel like soreness, sharp pain, itching, or tenderness. If nipple pain includes discharge, lumps, skin changes, or does not improve, seeing a doctor is important for proper diagnosis and treatment.
Common Causes of Nipple Pain
- Hormonal Changes: Around menstruation, pregnancy, or breastfeeding, hormones cause breast tissue swelling and tenderness.
- Breastfeeding: Issues like poor latch or breast pump use can cause chapping and pain.
- Friction/Irritation: Tight clothes, ill-fitting bras, or repetitive rubbing from exercise can irritate nipples.
- Infections: Yeast infections, clogged pores, or skin infections can cause soreness.
- Allergies or Dermatitis: Contact with irritants like detergents or fabric softeners may inflame the skin.
- Serious Conditions: Rarely, nipple pain can signal breast cancer or Paget’s disease, especially with other warning signs like lumps, discharge, or nipple inversion.
When to Seek Medical Advice
- Persistent or severe nipple pain
- Presence of nipple discharge (especially brown, bloody, or yellow)
- Changes in nipple shape or color
- Skin changes such as scaling, redness, or sores
- Presence of breast lumps or swollen lymph nodes
For typical soreness related to hormonal changes or friction, pain often resolves on its own or with simple care such as wearing comfortable, well- fitting bras and keeping the area dry and clean.
This information provides a comprehensive overview of what nipple pain can mean and when to seek help.
